1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 1998 Dodge Ram is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,906 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 664 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Dodge Ram (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1998 Dodge Ram has manual transmission. 1998 Dodge Ram will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Malibu | Ram |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 3906 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2790 mm |
